Arlington Public Library
The Arlington Public Library supports local entrepreneurs and businesses as they learn and grow with free networking events , workshops , digital resources and a makerspace .
Library services are funded ( in part ) by the U . S . Institute of Museum and Library Services through a grant to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission .
Workshops
• The Library teams up with local experts to host workshops related to topics such as starting a business , computer classes , marketing , customer service and building operations .
• Arlington Read ’ s is an adult literacy initiative that was created to improve the quality of life for Arlington residents and the surrounding communities . The program offers one-on-one and small group classes to help adults improve their reading and writing skills and can help with high school equivalency classes and testing for GED . The program also provides citizenship classes for students working towards their dream of becoming American citizens .
Digital Resources
• The Small Business Reference Center provides detailed “ how-to ” instructions to address small business topics , such as buying and selling a business , managing employees , writing business plans , understanding legal information and much more .
• AtoZdatabases is a directory and marketing database that includes 30 million businesses and 220 million residents . It is ideal for sales leads , mailing lists , and market research .
• Business Abstracts offers a multitude of business magazines and scholarly journals . This comprehensive database is an ideal resource for those looking to conduct research or find information in any area of business .
Makerspace
• From sewing and other traditional crafts to cutting-edge 3D printing , the Downtown Library offers something for both experienced and aspiring makers . Training is provided by Library staff . Four unique spaces , each with a different set of modern or traditional tools , are available for library card holders to use . Bring designs to life in the Tinker Room that features 3D printers , a vacuum form , a milling machine , a vinyl cutter , a plotter printer , and a variety of small devices and tools . Create wearable , usable pieces of art in the Innovate Room , featuring sewing , quilting and embroidery machines that offer a range of options for working with fabric . A heat press is also available .
Urban Design Center
City Hall
The Arlington Urban Design Center aims to create public awareness about the importance of urban design and its impact on the quality of life , environment , and economic investment . Graduate students from UTA ’ s College of Architecture , Planning , and Public Affairs ( CAPPA ) work closely with City staff on business and neighborhood development projects in Arlington . The Urban Design Center can help business owners , organizations , and neighborhoods visualize goals for their projects and determine feasibility through conceptual design work . The Design Center seeks to provide urban design solutions and innovative ideas , and present before and after images , at no cost to the general public .
Projects include :
• Business Facade Improvements
• Development of Neighborhood Plans
• Design Concepts for Civic Spaces and Buildings
• Infill / Redevelopment Designs
• Landscape Plans
• Streetscape Designs
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